On This Day in Alexandria History — “On August 7, 1900, the Alexandria Gazette reported that a four-legged chicken was residing in the city at the home of Washington Ewell, a 65-year-old African American farmer who resided at 1017 Cameron Street. Although the newspaper considered the unusual fowl a “queer freak of nature,” the amazing bird was also described as “perfectly formed and remarkably active.” Interestingly, it was further confirmed that the yellow-bellied curiosity walked on only two legs, carrying the other two about one inch above the ground.” [Historic Alexandria]
Gov. Spanberger Intervenes in Proposed Dominion Energy Merger Case — “As a Virginian, I am deeply skeptical about whether selling our primary, state-regulated utility to an out-of-state company is good for the commonwealth. I have serious questions about what this deal would mean for us. And as governor, I intend to get answers and be a voice for Virginians in the process.” [Washington Post op-ed]
Alexandria Remains Under Drought Warning Despite Recent Rain — “The state’s Drought Monitoring Task Force eased 15 counties and 10 cities from a warning to a watch — the New River and York-James regions, along with part of the Middle James — citing recent rainfall. The Northern Virginia region, which covers Alexandria along with Arlington, Fairfax, Fauquier, Loudoun and Prince William counties and the cities of Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas and Manassas Park, stayed at warning.” [Alexandria Brief]
Mayor’s Update from Scotland at Mayor’s Cup — “At [Wednesday]’s civic reception, Alexandrians were welcomed by Depute Lord Provost Nadia El-Nakla of Dundee, Scotland, the Dundee Twinning Association and US Console General from Edinburgh, Kathryn Porter. A great way to kick off a week of culture and sports.” [Mayor Alyia Gaskins/Bluesky]
City Marks Farmers’ Market Week — “You don’t need to wait years for an exemplary vegetable. We’ll see you at one of our many farmers’ markets this week. Happy Farmers’ Market Week! Find your favorite market at alexandriava.gov/FarmersMarket.” [City of Alexandria/Bluesky]
Change to Express Lanes Reversal This Weekend — “Overnight Friday, August 7 to Saturday, August 8, the 95/395 Express Lanes will experience an extended reversal period, closing at 10 p.m. and opening to traffic by about 8 a.m.” [VA Express Lanes/X]
It’s Friday — Expect mostly sunny conditions with a high of 91 and a heat index up to 102, with a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5 PM. Southwest winds will be light, increasing slightly in the morning. Friday night brings likely showers and thunderstorms before 8 PM, becoming mostly clear later, with a low of 73 and a 60% chance of precipitation. Rainfall may range from a tenth to a quarter of an inch, with heavier amounts in thunderstorms. [NWS]
